Military reports ‘unusual’ China drills after ship collision

An aerial view shows the BRP Sierra Madre on the contested Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin, in the South China Sea, March 9, 2023. (INQUIRER FILES)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines reported increased Chinese activity at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal this week, including water cannon drills, aerial surveillance and armed boats taking part in these exercises.

The AFP said the movements were observed on Aug. 20 after two Chinese vessels collided with each other within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

World War II-era vessel BRP Sierra Madre has served as a naval outpost at Ayungin since it was grounded there in 1999.

Despite frequent reports of China’s trespassing in Philippine waters, Chinese activities at Ayungin were “unusual” due to a number of factors, according to the Philippine Navy.

The Philippine military said China Coast Guard vessels conducted maneuvers and drills involving the use of water cannons.

“In total, five China Coast Guard vessels were present, supported by 11 RHIBs/fast boats and nine Chinese maritime militia vessels. Aerial assets were also monitored during the deployment,” the AFP said in a statement on Thursday night.

Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad said a helicopter and a drone were the two aircraft spotted around the shoal.

In a phone interview, Trinidad told reporters, “it’s unusual for them (China) to test their water cannons, to show what appeared to be a covered heavy machine gun, and to drop fishing nets that can impede watercraft.”

Intentional obstructions

He said Philippine troops removed fishing nets placed by Chinese vessels, as he described the nets as obstructions intended to hamper resupply missions to the Sierra Madre.

A video released by the military showed two Philippine rubber boats blocking an attempt by a Chinese craft to approach the Sierra Madre.

Despite the heightened Chinese presence, Trinidad said morale aboard the Sierra Madre remained high.

“They know what they are facing … and the most important thing is that we are convinced of the legitimacy of our stand. This is for the country, for the future of Filipinos,” he said.

The last time Chinese activity was observed at Ayungin was in late 2024, Trinidad said.

Asked about China’s presence at Ayungin, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. told reporters on Friday: “Let China violate international law. As long as we’re here, we will remain in our post.”

In the wake of the collision, Brawner was also asked what would trigger a stronger Philippine response.

He cited President Marcos’ earlier directive: “If someone dies, a Filipino, that is the red line.”